The 9,000-pound monster I don’t want to give back

Last weekend, I had the opportunity to test drive GM's latest creation, the electric Escalade IQL, weighing in at a staggering 9,000 pounds and starting at $130,405. As a car enthusiast with two electric vehicles already in my family, I was eager to experience this massive machine firsthand. Upon its arrival, I was immediately struck by the size of the Escalade IQL. Measuring 228.5 inches in length and 94.1 inches in width, it dwarfed my own vehicles, making my previous apartment in San Francisco seem smaller by comparison. Maneuvering it up my steep driveway felt daunting, as the high hood obscured my view of the ground directly in front of me. In an effort to acclimate myself before our trip to Tahoe, I took it for a spin around town. I quickly found myself discussing its size with a friend, jokingly referring to it as a tank. However, as the days passed, my initial skepticism began to fade. The turning point came during a snowstorm, where the Escalade’s performance impressed me beyond expectation. Entering the vehicle is a workout in itself, and it almost feels like a luxury that should come with an automatic step stool. Inside, the tech is impressive, featuring a 55-inch curved LED display that rivals a command center. Passengers are pampered with their own screens, wireless chargers, and, in the top-tier model, even massage seats, making long journeys a breeze. The spacious cabin ensures that all seven adults can travel comfortably, with ample legroom and high-quality leather seats. However, the driving experience took some getting used to. GM's Super Cruise, their hands-free driving system, had me questioning its reliability when it seemed to drift unnervingly between lane markers. The audio experience is phenomenal, courtesy of the 38-speaker AKG Studio sound system. Yet, navigating the vehicle's exterior was a different story. While the design is striking, the imposing grille and size were initially overwhelming. However, I found myself enamored with the Escalade's capabilities as I adjusted to its dimensions. Charging presented its own challenges, particularly in the winter. The Escalade IQL, with its 205 kWh battery, consumes energy at a higher rate than many comparable electric SUVs. Locating functional charging stations in Tahoe became a struggle, and after several setbacks, we finally found one that worked, just in time to avoid being stranded. Despite the frustrations — from the quirky frunk operation to the software that felt less intuitive compared to a Tesla — the Escalade IQL proved itself as a luxurious family vehicle. It excelled in snowy conditions, making travel feel secure rather than perilous. As the trip progressed, I found myself embracing the Escalade's imposing presence. It transformed from an intimidating titan to a beloved companion for our family adventures. However, as the week came to an end and the snow melted, I was left with mixed feelings. While I appreciated its luxury and capabilities, I couldn't ignore the underlying concerns about size, consumption, and practicality. Now, as I prepare to return this automotive giant, I find myself secretly wishing I could keep it a little longer. The Escalade IQL, with all its quirks and challenges, has unexpectedly captured a piece of my heart.